6 Biggest Metal Braces Pros and Cons You Need to Know
You may be highly familiar with them as metal braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment used to straighten teeth. They consist of metal brackets attached to each tooth with a metal wire that runs through them, which is adjusted regularly by an orthodontist to move the teeth into their desired position. Having been proven effective for many people, it’s still important to be aware of the pros and cons of metal braces in Princeton, NJ, before deciding if they’re right for you.
Here are some of the biggest metal braces pros and cons you need to know!
PROS
#1 – Metal braces have been proven to correct mild, moderate, and even severe cases of misaligned teeth.
Metal braces are popular for many reasons and one of them is their effectiveness. They have been proven to be successful in correcting cases of mild, moderate, and even severe misalignment issues with the teeth. These include crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
If you think you have a severe case of misalignment, you may consider metal braces as an optimal treatment for you. Despite this, people with mild orthodontic problems can still benefit from metal braces if they want a more noticeable result and to correct the issue quicker.
#2 – Metal braces require minimal patient intervention.
Once metal braces are applied, there is very little that you need to do on your part. The metal brackets and wires will be adjusted regularly by an orthodontist, so all the patient has to do is attend the appointments for checkups and adjustments. This feature of metal braces makes them a popular option for those who are busy and may not have the time or energy to constantly take care of their oral health.
#3 – They are relatively inexpensive.
Metal braces are one of the most affordable orthodontic treatments available. While metal braces may seem expensive upfront, they still tend to cost less compared to other types of braces such as ceramic and lingual braces. They also do not need additional procedures or special equipment, which can increase the cost of other types of braces.
CONS
#1 – Metal braces are the most noticeable type.
Perhaps the most obvious metal braces con is that they are very noticeable and can’t be hidden from view. This may not be an issue for some people, but it is a consideration to keep in mind. For people who are conscious about their appearance and want to minimize the visibility of their orthodontic treatment, metal braces may not be the best option.
However, there are still ways to make metal braces less noticeable. For example, metal brackets are available in different colors and shapes, so you can choose ones that match your teeth better.
#2 – Metal braces have food restrictions.
One of the metal braces pros and cons is they can make it harder to eat certain foods. You will need to avoid sticky and hard foods that can get stuck in the metal wires or brackets, such as caramels and popcorn, which can damage them. In addition, metal braces may cause irritation or discomfort when eating crunchy foods like chips and nuts.
You may need to find alternatives for these types of food or chop them up into smaller pieces so that they can be easier to eat with metal braces. Despite this, you need to remember that you will not be wearing braces forever, so any dietary restrictions during treatment should be manageable.
#3 – They cause some level of discomfort.
Metal braces can cause some level of discomfort, especially when they are first applied, and the metal brackets and wires press against your gums and teeth. This usually fades away after a few days as you get used to them, but orthodontists may be able to offer solutions such as waxes and creams to help alleviate the discomfort.
In addition, metal braces may also cause irritation and discomfort when your orthodontist makes adjustments at each appointment. This is because metal braces tend to be more rigid and can cause some discomfort when they are moved. However, this should only last for a little while after the appointment.
Weighing Metal Braces Pros and Cons
Overall, metal braces are an effective and affordable way to straighten teeth. However, it is important to consider all the metal braces pros and cons before making a decision. Make sure to consult with your orthodontist if you have any questions or concerns about metal braces treatment as well.
Choosing a trusted orthodontist to help with metal braces treatment is key, as they will be able to assess your condition accurately and provide the best advice on how to proceed. With metal braces, you can expect to have straighter and healthier teeth in the long run.
Consult Dr. Nicozisis in Princeton, NJ
Get a better understanding of metal braces pros and cons by getting a comprehensive evaluation from Dr. Jonathan Nicozisis in Princeton, NJ. As Dr. Nicozisis assesses your case, he will be able to give you the best orthodontic recommendation to ensure your desired results.
At Princeton Orthodontics, we provide a good selection of treatments such as metal braces, Invisalign, and other orthodontic appliances. Our mission is to provide quality dental care to create beautiful and healthy smiles for everyone.
Depending on your case, we will help you understand metal braces pros and cons to choose the best option based on your lifestyle, budget, and oral health. Schedule a consultation today and find out how to start your journey toward a healthier and straighter smile!
